Fin's Fish Guide
The Roudi escolar (Promethichthys prometheus) is a saltwater fish of the family Gempylidae that grows up to 100 cm.
Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope and near seamounts.
Description
The roudi escolar is a slender, copper-brown deep-water predator of the family Gempylidae (snake mackerels) reaching about 1 metre. The elongate body has a large mouth full of dagger-like teeth and, as in mackerel relatives, a row of small separate finlets behind the dorsal and anal fins. The species is widely distributed in deep water of warm seas worldwide, above the continental slope and near seamounts. At night it moves higher in the water column to hunt fish, squid and crustaceans, and by day it sinks to depth. With its oily flesh it is landed as bycatch of longline and deep-water fisheries; like other snake mackerels the flesh can have a laxative effect.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Roudi escolar?
The Roudi escolar has a torpedo-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Slender, copper-brown deep-water predator with a large mouth full of dagger-like teeth and small separate fins (finlets) before the tail. Note: in tropical areas this species can cause ciguatera poisoning when eaten; large specimens of coral reef predators can accumulate the toxin. Eat with caution or avoid in risk areas.
Where does the Roudi escolar live?
The Roudi escolar lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around open water. Widespread in deep water of warm and temperate seas worldwide, above the continental slope and near seamounts.
How big does the Roudi escolar get?
The Roudi escolar grows to a maximum of about 100 cm. On average the species is around 40 cm.
Is the Roudi escolar dangerous to humans?
No, the Roudi escolar is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Roudi escolar edible?
Yes, the Roudi escolar is commonly eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Gempylidae
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